Visiting the Philippines

The Philippine archipelago is made up of 7,107 islands and boasts of fascinating landscapes, active volcanoes, pristine beaches, coral waters and hospitable people. It is located in Southeast Asia, below Hong Kong / China.

Island Map

Global Map

CLIMATE:

November to February – cooler climate with no rainfall, average temperature is 26 degrees centigrade in daytime

March to June – summer season, expect temperatures to rise to 34 degrees centigrade in daytime

July to October – rainy season, monsoon and typhoons are expected

Places of Interest

There are over hundreds and hundreds of beaches to choose from when thinking of a getaway. Some beaches are close to the city, Metro Manila, and can be reached thru land in a 2 hours. Some may require a plane ride or a boat/ship ride to reach. Some of the most popular places to visit:

There are hundreds more of islands to visit, mountains to trek and beaches to explore and laze in. Most can be reached thru buses, boats or ferries or planes.

CURRENCY:

The country uses Philippine Peso. For updated currency exchange, you may check http://www.xe.com.

LANGUAGE:

The national language is Tagalog but almost everyone speaks English. You wouldn’t have a problem communicating when you get lost or need help! Plus, Filipinos are the most hospitable people in the planet!

FOOD:

With the American influence, one can find almost any western fastfood chain – McDonalds, Burger King, Wendy’s, KFC, Pizza Hut etc. Filipinos are known for their love of food and you will never go hungry! You can find seafood, chicken / beef / pork / lamb dishes everywhere. Vegetarians will also be delighted as more and more vegetarian places are cropping up.

Food costs: budget – 50 to 100 pesos (US$1 to US$2)

average – 100 to 300 pesos (US$2.50 to US$7)

splurge – you can spend as much as 5,000 pesos in an exclusive place

We cater to all kinds of palates, preferences, dishes, and budgets!

TRANSPORTATION:

Major transportation in the city are buses, jeepneys, cabs and trains. There is a train running from North to South of the city called MRT and East to West called LRT. Most people get by taking jeepney or bus rides for major thoroughfares. If you are within the city limits, you may also hail down a tricyle or a pedicab (similar to a rickshaw) to take you to nearby places.

Bedspace / Dormitory – P2,000 to P4,000 per month (US$50 to US$100)

Room Rent – P3,000 to P5,000 per month (US$60 to US$120)

Apartment – P5,000 up depending on area (US$120 up)

Apartelle – usually negotiable if you stay long term

Hotels – variable

OFFICIAL CARRIER:

The country’s official carrier is Philippines Airlines. There are several budget airlines that operate locally and internationally.